Type IIb fibers refer to fibers that have a relatively small number of mitochondria, a limited capacity for aerobic metabolism, and are less resistant to Fatigue than slow fibers.
Type IIb fibers, also known as fast-twitch fibers or fast glycolytic fibers, are a type of muscle fiber in the body that is associated with fast and powerful movements, such as sprinting or weightlifting.
These muscle fibers have a larger diameter and a lower oxidative capacity than Type I or Type IIa fibers. They rely on anaerobic metabolism to produce energy, using glycogen stores for fuel. This allows for quick bursts of energy but results in fatigue relatively quickly.
Some examples of activities that rely heavily on Type IIb muscle fibers include:
- Sprinting or running at high intensity
- Powerlifting or weightlifting
- Throwing a ball or other explosive movements in sports such as baseball or football
- Jumping or explosive plyometric exercises
Individuals who excel in these types of activities tend to have a higher proportion of Type IIb muscle fibers in their bodies. However, training can also lead to adaptations in muscle fiber type, with regular resistance training leading to an increase in Type II muscle fibers in general.